Upcoming Symposium to Highlight Spain's Role in American Democracy on September 19-20

Spain and the Birth of American Democracy: A History Symposium

The National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), in collaboration with the Queen Sofía Spanish Institute (QSSI) and the Fundación Ramón Areces (FRA), is set to host an enlightening symposium titled "Spain and the Birth of American Democracy". This pivotal event will take place at the DAR's Constitution Hall in Washington D.C. on September 19-20, 2025. This two-day symposium is a free event, aimed at illuminating Spain's crucial yet often overlooked role in the American Revolution.

This symposium is presented as a cornerstone event within DAR’s America250 celebrations, marking the 250th anniversary of America’s founding. Attendees can look forward to a wealth of expertise, with lectures and discussions led by renowned historians, professors, and experts specializing in Spanish-American history.

The event opens with a keynote presentation by Dr. Gonzalo M. Quintero Saravia, who is celebrated for his in-depth research on Bernardo de Gálvez, a notable Spanish figure who significantly influenced the Revolutionary War. The program will feature a variety of scholarly sessions covering topics such as Spain's clandestine support for the American colonies and the pivotal role of Spanish naval forces alongside their French allies during the conflict.

As part of the symposium, a distinguished group of speakers will include Pulitzer Prize winners and finalists, such as Thomas E. Chávez and Kathleen DuVal, alongside other intellectual figures contributing to our understanding of Spain’s historical contributions. Key discussions will feature titles like "The Erasure of Spain from United States History," presented by Richard L. Kagan, the QSSI's academic director.

Beyond lectures, the symposium will have booths and displays from various organizations, enabling guests to explore how the United States' 250th anniversary is being celebrated nationwide. Notable exhibitors include the Military Women’s Memorial and The American Revolution Institute of the Society of the Cincinnati.

Ginnie Storage, DAR President General, expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, "Historic preservation and education are foundational to the DAR, and we are thrilled to offer rich educational experiences at this symposium at no cost to the public." This sentiment echoes the organization’s commitment to ensuring that Spain’s contributions to American independence are recognized and understood.

Free registration is available for all attendees through the Eventbrite platform. This symposium, representing a collaborative effort under the AmericaSpain250 initiative, follows a successful inaugural event held in Madrid in May 2024.

As attendees engage with the past, they will also have access to a wealth of resources via the QSSI’s educational platform, developed in partnership with the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. This platform features primary sources, lesson plans, and multimedia aimed at deepening the connection between Spanish influence and American identity.

In addition to fostering new historical perspectives, the event serves as a testament to the ongoing dedication of organizations like the DAR to promote understanding and appreciation of America’s rich, diverse history. Updates regarding the symposium’s schedule, presentations, and relevant details will be made available on the Eventbrite page and the official sites of DAR and QSSI.

This symposium not only marks a significant scholarly gathering but also reaffirms the narrative that history is truly a tapestry woven together by diverse contributions, and in this case, the indispensable aid from Spain during one of America’s most defining moments.